NEWS AFFAIRS 7 : WHERE EVERY STORY HAS IT'S AFFAIR!
In a dramatic and unexpected event on Tuesday, a hydrothermal explosion at Yellowstone National Park’s Biscuit Basin sent visitors scrambling for safety. The explosion, which occurred around 10 a.m., shot steam, water, and dark-colored rock and dirt dozens of feet into the sky, creating a chaotic scene as people ran to avoid the falling debris.
The Incident
Location and Timing
The explosion took place in Biscuit Basin, a renowned collection of hot springs located a couple of miles north of the famous Old Faithful Geyser. Visitors on a boardwalk were observing the hot springs when the eruption began.
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Visitor Reactions
Videos posted online captured the dramatic moment. About two dozen people were watching from the boardwalk when the eruption suddenly intensified, sending water and debris skyward. As the debris began to fall, visitors could be heard shouting “Back up!” and “Holy cow!” before running to safety. The scene then shifted to awe as people turned to watch the ongoing spectacle under a massive cloud of steam.
Damage and Safety Measures
The explosion caused significant damage to the boardwalk, an elevated wooden pathway designed to protect both visitors and the park’s fragile geothermal features. Photos and videos from the aftermath showed damaged guardrails and boards covered in rock and silt near muddy pools. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Area Closure
In response to the incident, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) announced that the Biscuit Basin area was closed for visitor safety. This precautionary measure ensures that park officials can assess and address any potential hazards resulting from the explosion.
Understanding Hydrothermal Explosions
Nature of Hydrothermal Explosions
A hydrothermal explosion occurs when water suddenly turns to steam underground, causing a violent release of pressure. These explosions are relatively common in Yellowstone, given the park’s geothermal activity.
Historical Context
Biscuit Basin has experienced similar blasts in the past, with notable incidents occurring in 2009, 1991, and following the magnitude 7.2 Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. Despite their dramatic nature, these events are part of the natural geothermal processes at work in the park.
Comparison to Larger Events
While the latest explosion was dramatic, it was relatively small compared to historical events. For example, scientists believe that a series of hydrothermal explosions created Mary Bay on the northeastern side of Yellowstone Lake approximately 13,800 years ago. At 1.5 miles wide, Mary Bay is the world’s largest known hydrothermal explosion crater.
Volcanic Activity Status
Dormant Volcano
Yellowstone sits atop a massive, dormant volcano. Despite the sudden hydrothermal explosion, the USGS confirmed that there is no indication of new volcanic activity. The volcanic system remains at normal levels, and the recent explosion does not signal any impending volcanic eruptions.
The surprise hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin serves as a reminder of the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of Yellowstone National Park’s geothermal features. While the event caused significant damage to park infrastructure, the quick response and safety measures ensured that no visitors were injured. As investigations and repairs proceed, the park continues to monitor its geothermal activity to safeguard both its natural wonders and the millions of visitors who come to experience them each year.
